Education on Synthesis-oriented Engineering incorporating Project-based Learning and Reflection

Intensive course on “Engineering Foundation for Synthesis of Artifacts” at Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo

Abstract

In this intensive course, which has been held for three years since 2016, students began with learning social technology, use / maintenance, measurement, manufacturing, design, function, and service. These are viewpoints of synthesis-oriented engineering. Next, they worked on problem-solving projectbased exercises using these points of view. Each section in the exercise was devised so that they can investigate unintentional problems that artifacts can cause in interaction with other artifacts, humans, and society. After the exercises, students deepened their understanding of synthesis-oriented engineering through review of general discussion and self-evaluation. Questionnaire results showed learning effect and degree of understanding about each viewpoint.